Can axolotls live with plecos?
Verdict
No
No. Axolotls and plecos should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); plecos need 72–86°F. No temperature suits both.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAxolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); plecos need 72–86°F. No temperature suits both.
- Deal breakerFish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
- Watch outPlecos grow to 15 inches and need 125 gallons, far more than a tank set up for axolotls.
What works
- pH 6.5–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Axolotl | Common pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–66 °F | 72–86 °F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 15.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 125 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Bottom | Bottom |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Carnivore | Herbivore |
Better tank mates for plecos
Questions
Can axolotls live with plecos?
No. Axolotls and plecos should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); plecos need 72–86°F. No temperature suits both.
What temperature suits both axolotls and plecos?
None. Axolotls need 60–66 °F and plecos need 72–86 °F, so the ranges do not meet.
What size tank do axolotls and plecos need together?
At least 125 gal, set by the common pleco. Add space for each extra fish.